Barbara Sferra
Barbara Sferra
Certified Pilates Mat & Reformer Instructor
Barbara Sferra has always maintained a connection between mind, body, and form. She participated in gymnastics from Jr. High School through College and she took her first dance class at the age of 22 and has been dancing ever since.
She was introduced to Pilates as a means to strengthen her core and improve her overall movement and well-being and completed her Pilates training in August 2008.
Professionally, Barbara has a background in Employee Relations and Training, and gives back to the community through various volunteer activities.
Want to know more about Barbara? See her interview below.
BACKGROUND
How did you get into your field?
I “retired” from corporate America in 2002 when my husband took an international assignment in Mexico City. After returning state-side in 2006, I began taking DanceFix classes and knew I needed to strengthen my body to offset the aerobic impact I felt in the class. This is when I discovered Pilates.
What is your training background and how long have you practicing/teaching?
I began teaching Pilates in the Fall of 2008 after completing the Pendleton Pilates Teacher Training certification program. Previously, I worked as an Employee Relations specialist coaching managers and employees on how to have better working relationships. I prepared Policy and Procedures for the organization, managed conflict resolution meetings and conducted training classes on how to properly implement these policies.
Later, I served as a Human Resources Consultant and focused on Employee Satisfaction and Engagement – facilitating employee feedback sessions post Employee Satisfaction Survey. From the data and feedback, I prepared comprehensive improvement plans for the organization.
Who influenced your career path (who have you enjoyed learning from, mentor, etc.)?
I have enjoyed learning from people who are focused on how to make things better, rather than those who focus on what’s going wrong. Naturally I gravitate to those who look at positive problem solving.
What makes you love your field?
During my career, I was always very satisfied when problems, conflicts, and/or issues could be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction. Pilates has allowed me to help clients improve their physical well-being. Thereby improving their quality of life.
INTERESTS/SPECIALITIES
What kind of clients do you love working with?
My favorite clients are those who are striving to improve or maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether an injury or other ailment has caused them to get out of shape, the fact they are taking Pilates to improve their overall well-being gives me joy. I enjoy working with older adults struggling with how the aging process is impacting their health, and conversely, have enjoyed working with young adults who are just discovering how their bodies work.
What sets you apart?
People tell me I am true to myself and authentic.
What’s your mission?
My mission is to help my clients improve their overall health and well-being.
HOBBIES
What brings you joy? What do you do with your spare time?
I am an artist (of sorts). I love sewing art quilts and belong to the Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Artists guild, the Weavers Guild of Greater Cincinnati and the Studio Artists Quilt Associates guild. I am on the Board of the Clifton Cultural Arts Center and have served as their Treasurer for several terms. I also train the Marshals at the Western and Southern Open Tennis Tournament and co-chair the Marshal committee. I also use my scuba diving skills to volunteer at the Zoo and clean the Manatee pool. I enjoy travel, particularly to scuba dive, hike or experience other cultures.